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Animal care and welfare assistant

Overview of the role

Looking after the routine day to day care of domestic and/or wild animals

Reference Number: ST0397

Details of standard

Occupational profile: Animal Care and Welfare Assistants look after the routine day to day husbandry and care of domestic and/or wild animals under guidance in a variety of different settings. The work is carried out individually or as part of a team in places such as kennels and catteries, laboratories, animal welfare centres, farm parks, rehabilitation centres, retail outlets and in the transportation of animals. Animal Care and Welfare Assistants must have a strong work ethic and be prepared to work irregular hours in all weather conditions. They must maintain safe working practices and taking responsibility for themselves, animals and others.

identify and describe animals using appropriate methods to the species involved (e.g. scanning for microchips)

maintain, update and reference correct records in accordance with current legislation

deliver customer experience (internal and external), where applicable, in line with workplace policies and procedures

respond to animal first aid, urgent, ongoing and preventive care requirements as appropriate

Options

Options

Skills. Will be able to:

Knowledge. Will require a comprehensive understanding of:

Animal Interaction & Handling

Typical job roles include:

Animal Technician

Animal Welfare Assistant

Animal Day Care Assistant

Farm Park Assistant

Beyond routine animal husbandry as listed in the core i.e. for animals with specific needs, unknown or unpredictable behaviour i.e animals recovering from routine operations such as neutering, or who may be obese, pregnant or fearful. Behaviour such as barking or pulling on the lead or who react unpredictably when meeting other animals.

These animals will have a plan to follow prepared by a more senior person.

· the principles of care and related procedures and how to deal with these

· clinical parameters of common species seen in a veterinary environment

· legislation and limitations in relation to role and responsibilities in a clinical environment

· legislation in relation to the dispensing and administering of medication

· end of life care processes, procedures and support

· how to deal with emotional customers/clients

Behaviours

Safe Working

Maintain safe working practices, which must be adhered to at all times with constant situational awareness and adaptability to ensure safety of the animal(s), themselves and others. Have the ability to work efficiently to meet time deadlines and workplace requirements.

Work Ethic

Have a strong work ethic, a willingness to learn. Be respectful, punctual, reliable, trustworthy and diligent and prepared to work irregular hours, in all weathers. Take a pride in their work, showing commitment and loyalty, whilst conducting themselves in a professional manner.

Responsibility

Have responsibility for themselves, others and the animal(s) in their care, showing respect, empathy, patience and tolerance in all situations. Work with methods that reduce any risk of physical injury and emotional stress to animal(s), themselves or others. Manage your own emotional wellbeing and resilience. Accurately report any concerns, incidents and abnormalities.

Team Work

Have the ability to work both individually and as part of a diverse team as required, understanding their role and changing priorities when the situation dictates. Show respect to their fellow workers.

Communication

Respect the need for confidentiality and adhere to data protection policies. Communicate effectively with colleagues,

visitors and customers/clients. Demonstrate good interpersonal and active listening skills. Know when to ask for advice or guidance.

Professionalism

Professional and ethical responsibilities and the values of your work place. The limits of your own authority, expertise, training, competence and experience. Industry knowledge, respect and empathy for animals. Awareness of new ideas and openness to develop skills and new ways of working. Use social media responsibly.

The legal duty of care under animal health and welfare legislation and codes of practice and other relevant legislation affecting the keeping of animals

Qualifications: Apprentices without level 1 English and Maths will need to achieve this level and take the test for level 2 English and Maths prior to taking the end-point assessment